- By Priyanka Munshi
- Wed, 26 Jun 2024 11:26 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Uric Acid Diet: Did you know that a diet low in purines is essential for improved health? This is especially true for people with higher uric acid levels, which are frequently linked to gout. Numerous foods naturally contain purines, which the body breaks down to make uric acid. Uric acid is normally dissolved in the blood and eliminated by the kidneys.
However, eating too many foods high in purines can cause the body to create too much uric acid or limit its elimination, raising blood levels of the mineral. This may result in the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints, causing excruciating gout attacks and other health issues like kidney stones. Foods high in purines include red meat, organ meats, some fish and shellfish, and alcohol, particularly beer.
A diet low in purines is crucial for improved health, especially for those with high uric acid levels, which are often linked to gout.(Image Credit:Canva)
People can prevent flare-ups of gout and improve their general health by eating less of these foods and managing their uric acid levels. A low-purine diet also promotes the consumption of more nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. These foods not only help to lower uric acid levels but also improve overall nutrition and balance in the diet. Thus, we've compiled a list of certain foods high in purines that you should steer clear of as soon as possible for better health, according to WebMD.
Organ Meat
Do you know that organ meats are a good source of nutrients, they should be avoided by anyone looking to follow a gout-friendly diet due to their high purine content.
Sugary Drinks
Consuming too much sugar, especially high-fructose corn syrup, has been connected to gout, hyperuricemia, and other disorders. The purines in high-fructose syrup accelerate the formation of crystal deposits and the symptoms that go along with them.
Also Read: Midweek Inspiration: Top 20 Encouraging Quotes To Overcome Midweek Hump
High-Fructose Corn Syrup
A concentrated type of fructose called high-fructose corn syrup is frequently present in a variety of packaged food goods; however, it might not be obvious at first glance, according to Cleveland Clinic.
Consuming too many foods high in purines can lead to excessive uric acid production, causing gout attacks and kidney stones.(Image Credit:Canva)
Alcohol
people with gout prefer low-purine alcoholic drinks, such as spirits. Beer, on the other hand, has a high purine content and can raise uric acid levels when consumed frequently.
Seafood
A few fish species with the highest purine content are sardines and anchovies.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)